NEW TECH FOODS

Meatable has strengthened its leadership team with two strategic hires, reinforcing its efforts to integrate cultivated meat into the broader protein industry. The appointments also signal the company’s intent to work alongside conventional meat producers rather than positioning itself as a direct competitor.

Meatable has appointed Maiko van der Meer as director of commerce, effective now. Based in the Netherlands, van der Meer brings extensive experience across the meat, fish, poultry and plant-based sectors, having previously held leadership roles at MOWI, Vion Food Group, 2 Sisters Food Group and Tyson Foods. His appointment is expected to strengthen Meatable’s commercial strategy and industry partnerships.

Eugene Leong will join the company as head of Asia on 5 May, expanding Meatable’s presence in a region poised for rapid growth in alternative protein adoption. Based in Singapore, Leong has over 25 years of experience in the food ingredients and flavour industry, with previous roles at McCormick and Cargill. His expertise is anticipated to aid Meatable’s expansion efforts in Asia, where regulatory approvals for cultivated meat have progressed faster than in other markets.

Jeff Tripician, CEO of Meatable, stated: “Maiko and Eugene’s industry knowledge will be invaluable as we continue collaborating with traditional meat producers. We see cultivated meat as a complementary solution that aligns with existing supply chains while supporting sustainability goals.”

Engagement in global industry events

Meatable has also been invited to participate in several high-profile industry events, highlighting its growing role in the future of protein production.

The company will take part in:

• Expana Agri-Food Europe – A showcase of food and agricultural innovations.

• The Economist Sustainability Week – A platform addressing sustainability challenges, including in food production.

• IFFA – A key international trade fair for the meat industry, focused on future protein solutions.

• World Expo in Japan – A global event highlighting sustainable technologies and food innovations.

Participation in these events underscores Meatable’s engagement with policymakers, industry leaders and food manufacturers as it seeks to advance the role of cultivated meat within the conventional protein sector.

As regulatory frameworks for cultivated meat evolve – particularly in regions such as Singapore – companies with strong industry ties may have an advantage in scaling production and securing commercial partnerships.